Question 1

The Hookup Fee seems extremely high, why is that?

Accepted Answer

In short everything is more expensive. We currently have two wells and pump houses, soon to be expanded to three wells and three pump houses. We we have multiple water cisterns, backup generators, electronics valves and switches to monitor and alert, etc. , and we have to run 6 pumps to service multiple terrain elevations to maintain pressure to all members.
We make every effort to keep our monthly water rates as low as possible. The monthly fees we charge cover basic costs but are not enough for periodic large capital costs.
New connections provide additional funds to help maintain the system when we have system failures, like this summer (7/4/23) when one of our well pumps died. It was old and needed to be replaced.

Question 2

My property is right next to your service area, why can't I get water?

Accepted Answer

There needs to be a main line that runs close enough to reach your property. It may be the case that the main line is on the opposite side of a neighboring property on the edge of our service area.

We are a Coop that is funded by the members for the members, we do not operate the same as a public utility. Main lines can occasionally be extended to reach additional properties. This can only occur if the board agrees to a plan to extend the system, and the cost of any such addition is funded by the requesting parties. The Coop will normally never place additional costs on the existing members for new extensions.

Question 3

Once I am a member am I guaranteed water?

Accepted Answer

No. Unfortunately everyone is in the same boat, if for some reason the wells ever went dry, we all have a problem. The Coop cannot provide water it does not have, and cannot access via its wells.

Question 4

Can I turn off my water during the winter when I am not here?

Accepted Answer

No, this is not a service Garwood Water offers. In the past we have had some members ask to turn their water off in the winter when they are not here. The monthly fees are charged, and counted on for our budgeting process. We cannot afford to have a few customers opt-out of paying for services.

While some members may use their property as a summer home, most of the members live here full-time. The Coop was created to make it possible for local residents to get affordable, quality water versus each person having to install and manage their own well.

Question 5

If I sell my property does the new owner need to pay the connection fee, or just the membership fee?

Accepted Answer

The new owner just needs to pay the membership fee. A connection in good standing transfers with the property.

Question 6

What compensation does the Garwood Water Board receive?

Accepted Answer

We are a non-profit cooperative, the board does not receive ANY compensation. The board members do the job of managing and running the water system because they are community members of the coop as well. This is like running a small business that affects all of us. The board has to find and hire contractors to install new meters, replace equipment (e.g., pump) that dies, interact with Kootenai DEQ for inspections and remaining compliant, and of course answer questions and concerns from other Coop members.

Garwood Water Cooperative

Every Drop Counts

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